Hard-hitting Hawaiian Blake Cooper won’t be intimidated by Kade Ruotolo’s grappling prowess and accomplishments when the two meet in a lightweight MMA contest at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II on Prime Video.

The pair is set to throw down live in U.S. primetime on Friday, June 7 at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand. Ahead of their clash, Blake Cooper has come forward to provide a critical insight about his fight. Let us get into it.

Blake Cooper’s versatility and experience may prove decisive

That bout is sure to draw the attention of martial arts fans around the world, as it will mark the much-anticipated MMA debut of Ruotolo – the reigning ONE Lightweight Submission Grappling World Champion and arguably the top pound-for-pound grappler on the planet.

Well aware of his foe’s impressive credentials, Cooper is a skilled grappler in his own right. The 27-year-old comes from a proud family of fighters, has trained in MMA for years, and boasts a decorated collegiate wrestling career. He says he’s prepared wherever the fight goes, even if it hits the canvas: “I expect anything, you know? If he wants to stand, we can stand. And when it comes to the ground, I believe I can hold my own on the mats.

He further added “So wherever it takes us, this is an MMA fight, so it’s a little bit different. But yeah, I’m expecting anything really, whether it be stand up or on the ground, just being ready for any type of scenario.”

On paper, Cooper owns one clear advantage over the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu phenom – he’s significantly more experienced in MMA, having gone undefeated as an amateur before earning highlight-reel finishes in his first two pro bouts.

Cooper aims to stop Ruotolo’s hype with a ground-and-pound strategy

The Hawaiian says it’s that MMA experience, and particularly his ground-and-pound, that will make the difference against Ruotolo: “When he’s going for submissions or he’s trying to do something with me, if I can catch him a couple of times, he’s gonna think twice and hopefully let go of those submissions, and it’s gonna open up more opportunities for me. Striking while on the ground will be important.”

Ultimately, Cooper plans to get Ruotolo out of there inside the distance, and effectively put an end to the Californian’s hype train before it even leaves the station. He added: “I’m always trying to look for the finish. So whether it’s on the ground or standing, you know, just trying to finish this fight and get in there and get out of there. Not trying to put a decision on this thing, just trying to go for the finish. That’s my goal.”

What are your thoughts on that clash? Do you believe Blake Cooper to out his opponent? State your opinion in the comments below.